The Nigeria Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that one of the helicopters recently given to it from the Presidency had a mishap after a mission in Makurdi.
President Muhammadu Buhari had through the office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) handed over two (2) Agusta 101 Westland Helicopters to the NAF from the Presidential fleet.
It was widely reported on Thursday that one of the helicopters crashed in Makurdi while on a mission to deliver logistics which was initially denied.
It was said then that it was not a major crash, explaining that the helicopter after landing suddenly took off on itself and then tumbled. It was learnt that only the flight engineer was on board and did not sustain serious injury.
Online security platform, PRNigeria, also reflected in their statement that even though its team worked tirelessly yesterday to get the NAF to issue timely response on the crash, this belated rejoinder may still be useful to clear the air.
The release reads in part:
“Contrary to the crash report, it is pertinent to state that the mishap occurred while the helicopter was taxing after a successful mission.
“The incident happened last week on the tarmac at 33 Logistics Group, Makurdi.”
“Consequently, as it is usual in circumstances as this, a seven-man board of officers, headed by Air Vice Marshal Emmanuel Anebi, has been set up to investigate the immediate and remote causes of the incident.
Details of the investigation would be communicated to the public as soon as the Board concludes its assignment,” the statement said.